East of Africa Update - Officer Accidentally Shot
Observation Deck Construction Advances Despite Weather Delays at East of Africa
Construction of observation decks around the main holding pond at the East of Africa development has made incremental progress, even as cold weather has slowed most other work at the site.
Crews recently installed crossmembers on the larger observation deck near the Sharp House, a key structural step ahead of decking. Work has also continued on landings around the pond, including a new landing on the opposite side, expanding planned pedestrian access around the water feature.
Broader construction at the city’s 88-acre business development has been limited since heavy rain two weeks ago delayed installation of a culvert in Alkyre Run for the Westar Boulevard extension. Freezing temperaturesand snow that followed have further restricted activity across the site.
When conditions warm, crews are expected to resume more extensive work, including installing conduit and vaults along the Westar Road extension and near the Sharp House farther down Africa Road. Additional work will also include reinforcing foundations and beginning deck installation on the observation decks and landings.
Westerville Officer Injured in Accidental Shooting During Training in Whitehall
A Westerville police officer was injured Wednesday after being accidentally shot by a fellow officer during a training exercise in Whitehall, according to authorities.
The incident happened during a break in training with the Delaware Tactical Unit at the Defense Supply Center. Police said a firearm was unintentionally discharged, striking the officer in the hand and thigh.
The injured officer was taken to Mount Carmel East Hospital. The injuries were not considered life-threatening.
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is reviewing the incident, and the Westerville Division of Police has launched an internal investigation. No charges have been announced, and officials said there is no threat to the public.
The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.
Explore more hyper-local reporting by subscribing to The Hilliard Beacon, Civic Capacity, Marysville Matters, The Ohio Roundtable, Shelby News Reporter, This Week in Toledo, and Into the Morning by Krista Steele.
